Democracy is not a spectator sport–but far too many young voters are sitting on the sidelines. That’s why I have worked hard to involve young people in the legislative process since I was first elected.
This year I will again be hosting a Young Leaders Institute. We’ve selected six fabulous students, all of whom either live or go to school in my district. And what a group. They’re smart (average GPA of 3.9). They’re involved–everything from coaching little kids in soccer to participating in the Model UN.
The six students are:
Christina Johnson, a Mount Vernon High School senior. She manages the school’s swim team, serves as vice president of the English Honor Society, and volunteers at United Community Ministries.
Herberth Cisneros, a Mount Vernon High School senior, who plans to study law and become an advocate for the Hispanic community. He is taking the school’s most demanding International Baccalaureate curriculum and maintains a 4.02 GPA.
William Klein, a West Potomac High School senior, who is captain of the school’s swim team and an active member of the soccer team. He is treasurer of the school’s Amnesty International club.
Devon Cain, a West Potomac High School senior, who is captain of the soccer team and coaches an under-10 team. Last summer, she was elected Lieutenant Governor of Virginia Girls’ State.
Andrea Schwarz, a Bishop Ireton High School senior, who is a member of the National Honor Society and a National Merit Scholarship semifinalist. She volunteers for New Hope housing and has organized pro-life activities at her school.
Dalia Deak, a junior at the Islamic Saudi Academy, who is a member of the school’s “It’s Academic” team and a winner of numerous awards in Model UN activities. She is the first participant from her school selected for the Young Leaders Institute.
Wow. I can’t wait to get to know them better. They will be in Richmond from January 24-26, meeting with government leaders and observing the General Assembly. Next week, I’ll write about another effort to reach out to democracy’s next generation.
What a neat idea!!!
Maybe other Delegates could pick this up.
I have offered to help. It’s a LOT of work, but well worth it. In six years, we have evidence that we change both attitudes and behavior–every participant has voted in every election since they were part of YLI (we ask ’em). I take some small credit for the recent uptick in youth voting!
What exactly is the YLI and how can one apply for it in the future?
Are any of these emerging leaders young people with disabilities from the Virginia Youth Leadership Forum? If not, I would encourage you to look to YLF in the future as another source of dynamic young voices eager to be involved in the legislative process.